SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The St. Martin Promoting Young Ambassadors Foundation (SMPYA), President Ms. Angelique Romou, its members, and “The Kids Place” radio program proudly congratulate Senior SXM Young Ambassador Showanna Arthurs on earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Psychology from Monroe University.
Showanna graduated this year 2026, becoming a first-generation university graduate while maintaining an impressive 3.9 GPA. During her time at Monroe, she served on the New Rochelle campus Student Activities Executive Board, received the Director’s Award for Leadership, and proudly represented Sint Maarten in the Parade of Nations at the Radio City Music Hall Commencement.
Before pursuing her university studies, Showanna was an active member of the SMPYA foundation and spent approximately two to three years as a member of “The Kids Place” Radio program which airs every Saturday from 11 am to 12 pm on 95.9 FM SOS radio. She also volunteered at numerous Foundation activities, including events for seniors, women, youth and the wider community, was the host of the Facebook series Real talk with Angelique Romou and subsequently started a talk show with another SXM Young Ambassador Mr. Waby Faustin on SOS Radio.
SMPYA President and “The Kids Place” mentor Angelique J.G. Romou described Showanna as a determined young woman who has consistently demonstrated that when she sets a goal, she works hard to achieve it, a testament to her graduating from the Monroe University in just 2 years.
“Watching Showanna grow from a SXM Young Ambassador and a young radio & Facebook personality into an accomplished university graduate is an extremely proud moment. Her journey reminds us why it is so important to give our young people opportunities to develop their voices, confidence, leadership and sense of service,” Romou said
The Foundation also recognizes the contribution of the Sint Maarten Academy C.A.P.E. Division, where Showanna earned an Associate Degree in Economics before continuing her studies. Her journey highlights the importance of educational paths that allow students to build upon their earlier studies which can also give them an advantage and shorten their years at university while they pursue their chosen careers and higher education.
Showanna’s achievement is being highlighted during a particularly meaningful year as “The Kids Place” Radio Program celebrates its 15th anniversary of giving young people a voice.
“Over the past 15 years, the Foundation has watched many of our members grow from children and teenagers into young adults who have gone on to attend and graduate from colleges and universities, establish careers and contribute to their communities. SMPYA proudly applauds all of these young people and their achievements”, and “I would also like to thank Billy D of SOS Radio 95.9 fm for giving me the opportunity to start such a program for our youth 15 years ago.” Romou said.
As part of its anniversary celebration, the Foundation is sharing Showanna’s story as one example of the many proud moments that have emerged from years of investing in and believing in young people. “For 15 years, we have given young people a microphone, but more importantly, we have given them a voice,” Romou said. “As we celebrate Showanna, we also celebrate every past and present member who has gone on to pursue higher education, achieve their goals and make us proud.”
Reflecting on her own journey, Showanna credits her faith, perseverance and family:
“Who could it be but Jesus? The journey over the years was not easy. It took prayer, drive, strength and a lot of courage.” Said Showana
From her beginnings in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, to coming to St. Maarten, becoming a youth advocate, radio personality and university graduate, Showana says her journey has taught her the importance of perseverance and faith. She also shared that she is now enrolled in the University of the West Indies Moana Campus, Faculty of Law in Jamaica, obtaining her Bachelors of Law, LLB. Her message to the youth of Sint Maarten is simple but powerful: “Do not limit yourself. You can accomplish more than you anticipated you could, to become successful, you have to push harder, but it will be worth it in the end. You are capable. With God on your side, all things are possible!”
The Foundation extends heartfelt congratulations to Showanna’s parents, Dian-Jay McDonald and Felton McDonald, her siblings, family, friends and everyone who supports her throughout her journey. The St. Martin Promoting Young Ambassadors Foundation and “The Kids Place” radio Program proudly celebrate Showana McDonald and look forward to the great things still ahead of her.
As “The Kids Place” radio program on 95.9 Fm SOS radio, celebrates 15 years, Angelique Romou founder of the program & president of the Foundation, salutes every young person who has been part of its journey and remains committed to its mission of giving the youth of Sint Maarten a voice. Ms. Romou also encourages other youngsters to join the program by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by WhatsApp on +17215851974.
